Abstract

There is a paucity of data concerning condom use, especially regarding knowledge about the correct use of condoms in South Africa. Therefore, the aim of tile study is to investigate knowledge and sexual practices with reference to correct use of condoms among an urban adult community in the Northern Province. A cross-sectional face-to-face interview questionnaire was conducted. Sampling was done by systematic sampling. The samples consisted of 98 participants, 40 female and 58 male, the mean age was 27.2 years (SD=5.4), with a range from 18 to 45 years. Results indicated about 90% levels of correct answers for the items of 'expiry date of condoms', 'condom be put on before contact with vagina', and 're-using condoms'. More than 15% were not aware that condoms offer protection against Sexually Transmitted Diseases or AIDS. The most common mistakes with respect to condom use were ignorance about the correct moment to put on a condom, inability to put on a condom properly, when to take off a condom, and the use of oil-based lubricants, in this order. A significant relationship was found between age, sex, and frequency of sexual encounters in the last three months and condom knowledge. Findings are discussed in view of condom promotion programmes.